Progression of prodromal markers of α-synucleinopathy neurodegeneration in the first-degree relatives of patients with REM sleep behavior disorder: a 5-year prospective study
Rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (RBD) is a parasomnia in which individuals act out their dreams in the form of sleep talking, shouting, hitting or punching, etc. A number of studies have confirmed that most patients with RBD will eventually develop neurodegenerative diseases, especially α-synucleinopathies, such as Parkinson’s disease.
Our previous studies have confirmed the familial aggregation of RBD, which means the onset of RBD and prodromal markers of PD (such as constipation and subtle motor dysfunction) were more common among the first-degree relatives of RBD patients. Through first degree relatives of individuals with RBD, we hope to examine the role family genetics plays in the development of RBD and neurodegenerative diseases, which will help understand the pathogenesis of synucleinopathy neurodegeneration and pave the way for future protective trial to slow the progression of neurodegeneration in this high-risk group.
Persons with RBD (acting out dreams during REM sleep) and their aged ≥40 first degree relatives (including parents, siblings and offspring)
OR
Healthy individuals (without RBD and neurodegenerative diseases) and their aged ≥40 first degree relatives (including parents, siblings and offspring)
We hope to invite you to Shatin Hospital for this study, if this is inconvenient for you, we can arrange home visits alternatively.
Study content:
Procedures last around 2 hours, overnight sleep assessment and colonoscopy require further arrangements.
All assessments are free of charge and each participant will receive HK$100 cash coupon as travel allowance.
